1909 So-Called Dollar HK-356a, Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Expo

Coin Details

Description

Designated HK-356a in the Hibler-Kappen catalog, this 1909 piece commemorates Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Expo. The 1909 Hudson-Fulton Celebration in New York commemorated Henry Hudson's 1609 voyage and Robert Fulton's 1807 steamboat, with naval parades, replicas of the Half Moon and Clermont, and commemorative medals. The bronze composition of this piece reflects the medallic tradition dating to classical antiquity. Bronze so-called dollars typically survive in better condition than white metal examples due to the alloy's greater hardness and durability. Miscellaneous national commemorative medals were produced by a wide range of manufacturers, from the U.S. Mint to local die-sinkers, covering subjects from presidential inaugurations to infrastructure milestones. The HK numbering system established by Hibler and Kappen in 1963 brought order to hundreds of previously uncataloged American commemorative medals, many of which had been ignored by mainstream numismatic references. This piece is a variant of HK-356, distinguished by differences in composition, die state, or striking characteristics that merit a separate catalog entry in the Hibler-Kappen reference.

Rarity Notes

Strikings of HK-356a are scarce. Early 20th century medals were often distributed at events, with many entering circulation as pocket pieces rather than being preserved as collectibles.

Cross References

HK-356a; PCGS #642801; NGC #852231